Cigar rollers in Havana thrilled with warming U.S.-Cuba policy

Monday, December 22, 2014 - 01:11

Cigar aficionados in the U.S. and cigar-makers in Cuba are looking forward to the export of famed Cuban cigars. Gavino Garay reports.

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It's a formerly 'forbidden fruit' sure to be enjoyed by cigar aficionados on both sides of the Florida Straits.
On the list of President Barack Obama's new Cuba policy are legalized Cuban cigars, regarded as some of the finest in the world.
New provisions that may soon be implemented would make it legal to return to the United States with up to $100 of alcohol and tobacco.
Milagros Diaz says Americans have been lining up at her Havana cigar shop, and they'll only get the finest.
(SOUNDBITE) (Spanish) CIGAR-MAKER MILAGROS DIAZ SAYING:
"We are very happy. It is going to be very beautiful, all of the Cubans here are (looking) forward to the relations that the United States will have with Cuba and Cuba with the United States. In terms of Havana cigars, we are going to guarantee that they take back with them the best quality and the aroma of the tobacco leaves."
But it may take some time before Americans can find a Cohiba to puff on in the States, as wholesale shipments would require Congressional approval.

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